I grew up in New York City, but was always fascinated with the natural world. When I was 12 years old I took the subway into Manhattan every Saturday to the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium for free astronomy classes for students. I also enjoyed hiking in the woods looking for plants and birds, and reading about science. All these experiences led me to major in Biology, and eventually earn a PhD in Neurosciences. For many years I researched the eyes of insects, humans, and other animals. In 1995 I joined EMCC as biology instructor, and developed the anatomy and physiology program which emphasizes giving students the lab time to develop real expertise in histology, bones, and muscles, as well as learn about individual nerve cells all the way to brain function. Over the summers I still enjoy field research on snakes, toads, coral, plants, and birds. I like to read science fiction and watch sci fi shows like the British serial Dr. Who.